Criminal Legal Reform

By fighting for transformational change to policing and prosecution, pretrial detention, the right to counsel, and probation and parole, we are working to reverse the tide of mass incarceration, advance constitutional rights, shift power to under-resourced communities, and elevate approaches to justice and safety that advance fundamental freedoms for all.

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The Latest

Press Release
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Advocacy Groups Respond to new Lincoln Hills/Copper Lake Monitor Report

Community-based alternatives to incarceration remain the best solutions, organizations say
Issue Areas: Criminal Legal Reform
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Press Release
Press Release

ACLU of Wisconsin Raises Alarm on ICE Detention By Wisconsin Counties

Our open records requests have revealed that Ozaukee, Brown, and Sauk county sheriffs have made recent deals with ICE to house and transport detained immigrants.
Press Release
Press Release

ACLU of Wisconsin Files Brief in Case Advocating For the Rights of Students During School Interrogations

We filed an amicus brief asking the Wisconsin Supreme Court to protect students' constitutional rights when police question them at school. 
Issue Areas: Criminal Legal Reform
Legislation
Feb 28, 2025

AB 87/SB 95: Modern Day Poll Tax

This bill would prevent people with felony convictions from regaining their constitutional right to vote until they have paid all costs imposed as part of their sentence.
Status: Vetoed by governor
Position: Oppose
Legislation
Sep 19, 2025

AB 441: No Secret Police Act

This bill requires law enforcement officers to identify themselves by name, badge, and agency when making an arrest, and to provide the legal authority under which they are acting.
Status: Introduced
Position: Support
Legislation
Jul 16, 2025

AB 371/SB 375: Red Light/Speed Cameras in 1st Class Cities

This bill allows law enforcement agencies in a first-class city (presently only Milwaukee) to use automated speed enforcement cameras and red light cameras to detect traffic signal violations.
Status: Introduced
Position: Oppose
Legislation
May 30, 2025

AB 292/SB 295: Artificial Intelligence Court Interpreters

This bill would allow courts to use artificial intelligence or other machine assisted translation in civil, criminal or other proceedings including trials.
Status: Introduced
Position: Oppose